LaSalle Public Library turns the page to next chapter for renovations

ST. JOSEPH COUNTY, Ind. -- The LaSalle Library Branch is turning a page in its next chapter, with renovations and construction expected to last about a year.  

The renovations are part of a ten-year plan focused on updating library branches across St. Joseph County. 

The LaSalle branch will undergo a major transformation and 2,000-square-foot expansion.

"We're going to try and let our branches all have each their own characteristic, while also keeping and respecting what was there before, when possible," St. Joe County Public Library Daniel Lichty said. 

The upgrades include a brand-new children’s section with a travel theme featuring planes, trains and automobiles paying homage to the nearby South Bend International Airport as well as additional meeting spaces.  

In the meantime, library goers are encouraged to visit the Western Avenue location or any nearby branches. 

"We get so many compliments on the library here downtown as a whole and the system as a whole. And so, to be able to start to spread the love to all of those branches, and to start to make them make an impact and make a mark on the community, and make sure that they have gorgeous spaces in all corners of our city, is something that we're really excited for," Lichty said. 

But before renovations begin, residents have an opportunity to take home some of the furniture.  

A yard sale is happening tomorrow from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. right here at the LaSalle Library branch.  

It’s a one-day-only yard sale, giving residents a rare chance to buy a piece of the library from chairs and tables to old computer monitors. 

All proceeds will go towards the new renovation, helping to offset the cost without raising taxes.

The library is expected to open again in spring of 2026.